Pigeon Louse Fly vs Spiny Oakworm Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pigeon Louse Fly Spiny Oakworm Moth
Scientific Name Pseudolynchia canariensis Anisota stigma
Order Diptera Lepidoptera
Family Hippoboscidae Saturniidae
Size 5-7 mm 45-65 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Blood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Cosmopolitan - worldwide wherever pigeons occur Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pigeon Louse Fly

A flattened, tough-bodied blood-sucking fly found on pigeons and doves worldwide. It has a leathery appearance, strong claws, and wings that allow it to move between bird hosts.

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Did You Know?

It is the primary vector of pigeon malaria, a Haemoproteus blood parasite that infects domestic and wild pigeons.

Spiny Oakworm Moth

A medium-sized saturniid with rich orange-brown wings bearing a small white discal spot. Males are darker and smaller than females, with more feathery antennae.

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Did You Know?

The spiny oakworm caterpillar is covered in sharp branching spines that can cause a mild irritation to the skin when handled carelessly.